San Diego State right-hander Michael Cederoth has a talent such that he has been projected as a first-round selection in June’s major league draft.

But Cederoth’s talent hasn’t translated to success — at least not enough of it — for the Aztecs. This prompted moving Cederoth from No. 1 starter to closer one week into the season.

The 6-foot-6 junior has thrived in the new role, with a hand in four of six wins for San Diego State (6-2) over an eight-day period.

Cederoth picked up a win and a save against West Virginia this past weekend. He got another save Tuesday night in the Aztecs’ 8-7 win at UC Riverside, stranding the tying run at third base by striking out the last two hitters of the game.

“I love the role, honestly,” said Cederoth, a Steele Canyon High graduate. “It’s something I know I can succeed in and give my team the best chance at winning games.

“I’m available every game and my job is to get three outs, or a little more, every time I go in. So the intensity and hype is a lot more than a starting position, but it’s what I love and what I’m excited about being a part of.”

Cederoth emerged as a top-flight talent the moment he stepped on campus two years ago, with a sizable presence on the mound and a fastball that touched 101 mph.

But Cederoth’s first two seasons were marked by inconsistency. Much of it was because of his inability to locate the plate, which elevated his pitch count and made for early exits. Seldom has he pitched past the fifth inning.

Last season had its moments, including a career-high, 14-strikeout game against Nevada and complete games at Air Force and Arkansas. But there was too much inconsistency overall. Cederoth ended the season with a 3-9 record and 4.25 ERA.

Cederoth was San Diego State’s opening-day starter this season against San Jose State, taking the loss against the Spartans after allowing five runs (three earned). He came out of the game after just 3 2/3 innings, his pitch count already approaching 100.

“After that first start, he’s 90 pitches in the fourth inning,” said San Diego State pitching coach John Pawlowski. “(It was like) what are we doing? We’re headed down the same path. ...

“His first 25 bolts are as good as anyone in the country. Why not utilize that and put him in a position to be successful?”

Last year’s closer, sophomore right-hander Bubba Derby, has moved into the starting rotation, so Cederoth also is filling a need.

It seems to be a sound move as the Aztecs prepare for this weekend’s four-game series at Saint Mary’s, where former Aztecs pitching coach Eric Valenzuela is the new head coach.